Shelving at a height of 24–70 inches off the floor, with frequently retrieved items in the mid-range.

Touchscreens 22 inches from the user, with the top 47–71 inches above the floor if adjustable or 59 inches if fixed.

Other visual displays with the top 58–71 inches above the floor if adjustable or 66 inches if fixed. The viewing distance should be 18–30 inches if adjustable, 23 inches if fixed.

Hand working heights at 38–47 inches above the standing surface if adjustable, 42 inches if fixed.

Make work easier on every employee

Creating a safe and comfortable workspace requires ongoing attention.

Provide tools, such as phone headsets so employees aren’t cradling the headset with their neck, or a back brace for those who lift heavy boxes. Antifatigue floor mats at standing workstations can ease the stress on employees’ feet and knees.Note: In the NIOSH evaluation, pharmacy employees found that tools intended to make opening caps easier actually made the task more difficult. The lesson: Don’t assume a potential solution works. Ask for feedback from the staff.

Make adjustments part of the workflow. Train staff to adjust their workspace every time before beginning to work. A computer screen that is just right for a 6-foot technician is too high for a 5-foot pharmacist. And, an older worker may require more light.

Add variety. Alternate among tasks during the day to reduce the risk of injuries from repetitive motions and to decrease eye strain from staring at a computer screen.

Provide comfortable workstations, train employees on proper ergonomics, such as holding wrists in a neutral position when keyboarding, and encourage them to talk with you about concerns as they arise. Simply asking a co-worker for help when lifting heavy items can prevent a painful back injury.

Safeguarding your employees is good business, because when they are comfortable, they can avoid injury and will be more productive.

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Health Mart is proud to be a member of the McKesson family, sharing in the collective industry knowledge and experience residing within all of the McKesson corporate affiliates. Since 1833, McKesson has been committed to the success of independent pharmacies through the delivery of innovative programs and reliable distribution services.